Jan. 22
So many Division I coaches are looking at the junior-college ranks to get players who provide an instant impact.

Lots of these players can step in and solve problems or dilemmas. To me, it becomes an issue if you recruit a juco player and he's not ready to step in and compete right away. If you're going the juco route, you have to get someone who can play 30 minutes a night and be a consistent factor on the floor.

If you're going the juco route, you have to get someone who can play 30 minutes a night and be a consistent factor.

As a coach, if you recruit a juco player who cannot perform to that level, you'd be better off developing a kid out of high school.

That's why taking a juco who is only available for two years of eligibility can be risky.

There have been a handful of juco players who have made an impact this season. Here are my top three impact jucos of the season so far...

At Missouri, Ricky Clemons had a problem off the court that led to a one-game suspension. On the court, he has been an important factor for coach Quin Snyder's Tigers. Remember, last season the Tigers had Clarence Gilbert and Kareem Rush on the perimeter as well as Wesley Stokes, who transferred to San Diego State.

A solid all-around performer who can make 3s and pass the rock, Clemons has come through big-time. He had 27 points (6-of-11 on trifectas) and seven assists in a win at Iowa. He has given Missouri quality time right away.

Down at LSU, coach John Brady has been thrilled with Dixie Junior College transfer Jaime Lloreda, who was the national junior college player of the year. The 6-foot-9 Lloreda has had a number of super performances this season -- just ask Arizona coach Lute Olson and Mississippi State coach Rick Stansbury!

In LSU's win over then No. 1 Arizona, Lloreda posted a double-double (19 points, 13 rebounds). Against Mississippi State's Mario Austin and company, he contributed 19 points and nine rebounds.

Oklahoma State has been a pleasant surprise this season, and coach Eddie Sutton has relied on the play of Tony Allen. The 6-4 guard from Wabash Valley Community College came up with a big three-point play in overtime during a recent win at Baylor. He had 29 points and nine rebounds in a win over Texas A&M.

I'm not on the sidelines any more -- I'm in the booth and I leave night after night with a W! But if I were going after juco players, I'd want guys who can make a difference right away.